Hey there, fellow plant-based foodies! Are you tired of scouring menus, only to find that your dining options as a vegan or vegetarian consist of a bland salad or a side of fries? Fear not! In this blog post, we will explore some tips and tricks for finding high-protein plant-based options while dining out. From hidden gems on menus to creative ordering hacks, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dig in! 🍴

Look Beyond the Obvious 💡

Don’t be afraid to ask your server if there are any vegetarian or vegan options available off the menu. Many restaurants have a secret menu, or offer items that are not advertised as vegetarian or vegan but can be customized to fit your dietary needs. In addition, you can also do some research online before heading out to eat. Websites like HappyCow and Yelp offer a wealth of information on vegetarian and vegan-friendly dining options, and sometimes even include reviews and photos from other plant-based eaters to give you an idea of what to expect. 🧐

A person sitting at a restaurant looking at the menu with a confused expression.

Check the Sides 🥦🥕

Don’t overlook the sides section of the menu - sometimes you can create a full, protein-packed meal just by choosing a few different sides! Look for options like roasted vegetables, edamame, sweet potato fries, and quinoa salad. You can even ask the server to combine different sides into a customized dish that suits your needs. 🤤

A plate with different sides on it, including sweet potato fries, roasted vegetables, and quinoa salad.

Get Creative with Your Order 🌯🥗

When in doubt, don’t be afraid to customize your order to fit your dietary needs. For example, you can ask for a bean burrito without cheese, or a veggie burger with added avocado and mushrooms for extra protein. You can also ask for sauces or dressings on the side, so you can control how much you consume. Don’t be shy - most restaurants are happy to accommodate special requests, and your taste buds (and stomach!) will thank you. 🙌

A person holding a customized veggie burger with added avocado and mushrooms.

Look for Ethnic Cuisine 🌶️🍛

Many ethnic cuisines offer vegetarian and vegan options that are packed with protein. Look for options like Indian dal, Middle Eastern hummus and falafel, or Thai tofu curry. You can also explore different types of cuisines, such as Ethiopian or Vietnamese, which feature plant-based dishes as a staple of their menus. Don’t be afraid to try something new - you might just discover a new favorite dish! 😍

A plate of Indian dal with rice.

Conclusion 🌟

Being plant-based shouldn’t mean sacrificing flavor or protein in your dining out experiences. By looking beyond the obvious, checking the sides, getting creative with your order, and exploring ethnic cuisine, you can find a variety of high-protein plant-based options at your favorite restaurants. So next time you’re out to eat, don’t shy away from asking questions and customizing your order - you might just discover a hidden gem that becomes a regular part of your dining routine. Happy eating! 🌱🍽️

A group of friends eating at a restaurant, all smiling and enjoying their food.